Johannesburg, South Africa – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently attending the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he has engaged in a series of high-profile interactions with world leaders. Among these interactions, a brief but warm exchange with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has captured particular attention.

The meeting between PM Modi and PM Meloni took place on the sidelines of the summit. Video footage and images circulating on social media show the two leaders sharing a smile and a firm handshake. This public display of camaraderie underscores the strengthening relationship between India and Italy.

This marks the fifth time the two leaders have met in the past two years. Their last interaction occurred in June 2024 during the G7 Summit in Puglia, Italy, which was chaired by PM Meloni.

The interaction between PM Modi and PM Meloni at the G20 summit highlights the growing partnership between India and Italy in several key areas. These include defense cooperation, migration mobility agreements, and industrial collaboration. Both leaders have expressed mutual admiration and a commitment to deepening ties between their respective nations.

In September, PM Modi described PM Meloni as an "extraordinary political leader who combines ideas and heart" and referred to her autobiography as a "Mann Ki Baat", or ideas from the heart. PM Modi emphasized the closeness between India and Italy, founded on "shared civilizing instincts, such as the defense of heritage, the strength of community, and the celebration of femininity as a guiding force". Meloni reciprocated these sentiments, affirming the strong bond between the two nations.

Beyond his interaction with PM Meloni, PM Modi has been actively engaged in other diplomatic activities at the G20 Summit. He met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to discuss issues of bilateral and mutual interest. Discussions covered defense and security, nuclear energy cooperation, and trade, which PM Modi identified as areas of "immense potential". He also noted progress on education, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people linkages.

The G20 Summit in Johannesburg is particularly significant as it is the first time the summit is being held on African soil. The summit's theme is "Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability," and discussions are expected to focus on global economic recovery, climate action, digital cooperation, energy transition, and geopolitical stability. PM Modi is expected to present India's perspective on these issues, aligning with the country's vision of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" and "One Earth, One Family, One Future".

The Prime Minister is expected to speak in all three sessions of the Summit. These sessions will address inclusive and sustainable economic growth, building resilient economies, and shaping a fair and just future. On the sidelines of the G20 Summit, PM Modi is also scheduled to participate in the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ Meeting.